Supplements That Affect Iron Absorption

Iron is an important mineral that is necessary for a healthy body. The food combinations you eat, as well as what you take with iron can affect your body's ability to absorb it. Without adequate iron, you can suffer from anemia. A disease characterized by low levels of oxygen in your blood. Try to get 18 mg of iron each day from various sources including spinach, Swiss chard, cereal, clams, meat or beans.

Significance

Iron is an essential mineral; if your body does not get enough you risk suffering from a condition known as anemia. Anemia occurs when you don't have enough or you have impaired red blood cells. These cells are responsible for carrying oxygen inside your blood, so if they are unable to perform their job, your body is not getting an adequate supply of oxygen to function. This can result in fatigue and a reduced physical work capacity.

Calcium

Taking a calcium supplement may make it hard for your body to properly absorb iron. A study published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition" in January 1991 looked at the effect of a regular calcium supplement on iron absorption. Scientists compared the rate of iron absorption paired with a supplement of either calcium citrate or sulfate. Calcium citrate inhibits iron absorption by 49 percent while sulfate inhibits iron absorption by 62 percent. However, when taking calcium carbonate with an iron supplement without food, iron absorption was not affected. This study suggests that if you are going to take a calcium supplement, choosing calcium carbonate and taking it without food may be beneficial for iron absorption.

Pancreatic Enzymes

Many patients, specifically people that suffer from cystic fibrosis, may need to take a dosage of pancreatic enzyme supplements to help improve their condition. These supplements can affect how your body absorbs iron. According to a study published in the "American Journal of Diseases of Children" in 1989, iron deficiency is common in children with cystic fibrosis. This study evaluated the effects of iron absorption paired with a supplement of pancreatic enzymes. Those that are on pancreatic enzymes for a longer duration are more susceptible to suffering from an iron deficiency.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C helps your body absorb iron. It's an antioxidant vitamin, which means it helps protect your body from oxidized cells. One of its jobs is to protect dietary iron from becoming oxidized in the intestines. This function promotes your body's absorption of iron.